A suspected arson fire did extensive damage to a large wooden dragon sculpture at the Oregon Country Fair site in Veneta late last week.
The dragon near the entrance to the Oregon Country Fair is familiar to people who've visited the annual three day festival. OCF General Manager Charlie Ruff says the dragon's head and tale are still intact but the middle of the wooden structure was destroyed. Ruff says it's a blow because the dragon is an important feature at the fair.
Ruff: "Something will rise from the ashes. From the ashes of the body of that dragon, something new and amazing will come forth, I'm sure of that."
Lane Fire Chief Terry Ney says there's evidence a fire was built near the wooden structure. He says the fire likely occurred Thursday night or early Friday. The Fair site suffered damage from the recent snow and ice storms. Charlie Ruff says the property is closed while crews clean up fallen trees. The 45th annual Oregon Country Fair is July 11th through 13th.